Depression is a debilitating neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by dysregulation of monoaminergic neurotransmission, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. The limitations associated with current synthetic antidepressants—including side effects, delayed onset, and limited efficacy—have prompted a growing interest in phytopharmacological interventions. Brideliaretusa (Roxb.), a medicinal plant widely distributed in tropical regions, has traditionally been used in the management of neurological and inflammatory conditions. Phytochemical studies have revealed the presence of bioactive metabolites such as flavonoids, tannins, triterpenoids, phenolic compounds, and alkaloids that possess strong antioxidant and neuromodulatory properties. Recent experimental reports suggest that extracts of B. retusa exhibit antidepressant-like activity possibly through enhancement of monoamine neurotransmitters including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, along with inhibition of oxidative stress and suppression of neuroinflammatory mediators. This review focuses on the mechanistic insights into the antidepressant potential of B. retusa, emphasizing its pharmacological role in neurotransmitter modulation, monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibition, and neuroprotection. These findings highlight B. retusa as a promising natural therapeutic candidate for the development of safer and more effective antidepressants
Keywords: Brideliaretusa; Neurotransmitters; Serotonin; Dopamine; MAO inhibition; Antidepressant activity; Phytopharmacology; Neuroinflammation; Oxidative stress; Natural therapeutics
How to cite this article: Khadanga M, Sahoo N, Kar NR; Brideliaretusa–Mediated Modulation Of Neurotransmitters: A Mechanistic Approach To Antidepressant Activity..Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026; 16(1): 44-48, DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.1.4